The National Truck Equipment Association’s recently established Louis V. Kleinstiver Institute is dedicated to promoting commercial truck and transportation safety through research, training and seminars, and will award scholarships to post-high school students for engineering and related sciences.
“The Institute promotes the production of safe commercial trucks, which is fundamental in supporting the NTEA’s mission,” said NTEA Executive Director Jim Carney. “The name of the Institute is a tribute to the late Louie Kleinstiver, who was a dedicated and tireless advocate of truck equipment safety knowledge.”
Kleinstiver served the NTEA and its members for 16 years as the Association’s director of technical services. He succumbed to a lengthy battle with cancer in February.
During his tenure with the NTEA, Kleinstiver spearheaded various programs and worked to educate manufacturers and distributors on their responsibilities relative to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the importance of compliance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). He was a chief proponent and facilitator in engaging the NTEA and its members in cooperative testing and developing performance standards.
Kleinstiver is also credited with developing ASE certification for truck equipment mechanics. As a result of his dedication, more than 3,000 truck equipment mechanics have reinforced their skill levels and achieved ASE certified status.
“The Louis V. Kleinstiver Institute has been set up to continue to emphasize and institutionalize Louie’s dedication to improving the safety of commercial trucks through testing, research, education and training,” said Carney.
In support of these activities, both individuals and corporations can make financial donations to the Institute. Contributions may be sent to: The Louis V. Kleinstiver Institute, C/O National Truck Equipment Association, 37400 Hills Tech Drive, Farmington Hills, MI 48331-3414. For further information about the Institute, please contact NTEA Executive Director Jim Carney at 1-800-441-NTEA or e-mail [email protected].